Healthcare

Respiratory Therapist Career Guide

Treat patients with breathing disorders, manage ventilators, and provide emergency respiratory care.

55Average
Median: $70,000
Hours/week: 40
Education: Associate's
Growth: 13%

Overview

Treat patients with breathing disorders, manage ventilators, and provide emergency respiratory care.

Median Salary
$70,000
Weekly Hours
40
Education
Associate's
Job Growth
13%

Key Metrics

Stress6/10
Work-Life Balance7/10
Job Security8/10
Remote Friendly2/10
Physical Demand5/10
Automation Risk3/10

Pros

  • +Healthcare stability
  • +Good pay
  • +Helping people
  • +Growing field

Cons

  • -Emotional cases
  • -Shift work
  • -Physical demands
  • -Exposure to illness

Savings Calculator

Percentage saved10%
0%25%50%
Yearly Savings
$7,000
Monthly Savings
$583

Top Employers Hiring for Healthcare

HCA Healthcare
Kaiser Permanente
Mayo Clinic
Cleveland Clinic
UnitedHealth Group

About This Career

Treat patients with breathing disorders, manage ventilators, and provide emergency respiratory care.

Guide to Education

Required Education

Associate's

Typical Training

2 years of experience/training

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a bachelor's?

An associate's is sufficient, but bachelor's helps.

Where do respiratory therapists work?

Hospitals, clinics, and home health.

Is respiratory therapy growing?

Yes, aging population increases demand.

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